Obama Suggests IRS, Benghazi, AP Phone Scandal Are Just 'Politics

AP

Coming off one of the most turbulent weeks of his administration, President Barack Obama implied that the trifecta of controversies -- the Internal Revenue Service, Benghazi and the Associated Press phone records -- are just "politics."

In his weekly address, Obama touted his proposals to reinvigorate the economy and expand the middle class, referencing his recent travel to Baltimore and Austin, Texas to push his ideas.

"That’s why I like getting out of the Washington echo chamber whenever I can – because too often, our politics aren’t focused on the same things you are. Working hard. Supporting your family and your community. Making sure your kids have every chance in life," Obama said.

While he didn't make explicit reference to any of the controversies, the White House was on defense much of the week, particularly as details about the IRS giving extra scrutiny to conservative groups, and the Justice Department obtaining two months of phone records from AP journalists, came to light.